Cathy Fischer Memorial Walk and Run
Sun, Jul 12, 2026, 8:30 AM EDT
- Location
- Sunset Memorial Park - Follow signs to Section 46, 6265 Columbia Rd, North Olmsted, OH 44070
- Type
- Run
Sign up and verify details on the organizer's official page.
Race feel
Run or walk in memory of Cathy Fischer, supporting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society on a scenic, challenging course.
- Scenic
- Competitive
- For a Cause
Scenic
Competitive
For a CauseGreat for
- Beginner Friendly
Beginner FriendlyJoin the Cathy Fischer Memorial Walk and Run in North Olmsted, OH, a heartfelt event dedicated to honoring Cathy Fischer's inspiring battle with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. This race benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, continuing Cathy's legacy of giving back. Participants can choose between a 5K or 1 Mile distance, both featuring a challenging route with rolling hills, as Cathy herself wished. It's an opportunity to run for a cause, remember a remarkable woman, and contribute to vital research and patient support.
From the organizer
Benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society!
CATHY'S STORY
Cathy's journey with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma began in Feb 1996, six years before her official diagnosis. In 1996, she raised $3200 for LLS, possibly sensing her future battle. In Nov 2011, she developed symptoms and underwent treatment at Cleveland Clinic from 2012 to 2013, managing chemo and hair loss. She never complained and continued to work full time and teaching reading to underprivileged children one day a week during her scheduled lunch. And she continued to run at least 20 to 30 miles per week.
In Dec 2013, Cathy opted for an aggressive bone cell transplant. Despite the three-week sterile procedure, she remained active, walking the halls, spreading smiles, and resumed work and her normal physical activities, which included running, hiking, water aerobics, and yoga,post-release.
2014 brought ups and downs. Although she did not receive any further chemo, she required periodic scans and remained on medication for her lymphoma. Her attitude was great and Cathy managed a trip to New Hampshire, where she hiked to the top of Mount Washington. In the fall she hiked Sedona and the Grand Canyon.
In 2018, a scan revealed aggressive lymphoma B-cells, leading to a CART T Cell procedure in Columbus for three weeks. Cathy's resilience was evident as she exercised daily, read books, and attended events during recovery.
2019 to July 2023 involved emotional roller coasters with drug trials and chemotherapy, leading to hospital stays. Cathy's unwavering faith, commitment to Mass, and plans for future activities showcased her courage. Her greatest hope was to witness her eldest granddaughter’s wedding day someday.
Despite her challenging "fight," Cathy embraced life, served others, and raised thousands of dollars for LLS to help other people. Sadly Cathy lost her fight and she symbolically transitioned from bearing her "cross" to wearing her "crown."
TESTIMONIALS
"A great run, for a great cause, to commemorate a great woman" - Matt P.
"Easy registration, and a scenic and challenging course with lots of great crowd support. A perfect tribute to Cathy!" - Christine M.
"You all is a wonderful job and had a very successful event this year. A great event honoring a great lady. Will be back again this year! - Dan F.
Awards
Food & Drink